World Food Safety Day observed globally to promote safe food practices

Kathmandu – The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that around 600 million people worldwide fall ill each year due to contaminated food.

According to WHO, foodborne diseases result in approximately 420,000 deaths annually. In this context, World Food Safety Day is being observed today across various parts of the world with diverse programs to raise awareness about the importance of safe food.

The United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution in 2018 declaring June 7 as World Food Safety Day, and it has been observed globally since 2019. The promotion and coordination of this day are jointly managed by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food is considered essential for human life, health, and overall well-being. Bacteria, viruses, parasites, and chemical substances entering the body through contaminated food or water can cause various foodborne diseases.

These risks are often invisible to the naked eye, making food safety a particularly challenging issue. WHO states that children under five bear about 40% of the foodborne disease burden, with approximately 125,000 children dying each year due to these diseases.

Foodborne diseases disproportionately affect women, children, conflict-affected communities, migrants, and other vulnerable groups. Experts note that food safety is an issue related to the entire food chain, from production to consumption.

By adhering to safety standards at every stage of food production, collection, processing, storage, transportation, distribution, preparation, and consumption, the risk of foodborne diseases can be significantly reduced. On this occasion, there is an emphasis on viewing food safety in connection with effective regulatory systems, access to clean drinking water, good agricultural practices, food safety management systems, and consumer awareness.

Experts suggest that ensuring safe food can only be achieved through the collective efforts of the government, producers, businesses, scientists, civil society, and consumers. With the message ‘Food Safety is Everyone’s Responsibility’, this day highlights the interconnection between food safety, public health, agriculture, trade, tourism, and sustainable development, calling for active participation from all sectors to ensure safe food.